Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons avocado oil (divided, or any other oil); 4 chicken breasts (diced into 1-inch pieces); 1 large egg (beaten); 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (divided); 1 head broccoli (cut into small florets); 2 cups cooked quinoa; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (use 1 tablespoon for a less spicy option); 2 garlic cloves (minced); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 green onions (thinly sliced); 1-2 teaspoon black and white sesame seeds (or as desired); Lime wedges (for serving)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 87 reviews

If you’re on the lookout for a delicious, easy, and satisfying meal that keeps well all week, the Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep Recipe is here to transform your lunch or dinner routine. This dish strikes the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, all wrapped around tender chicken pieces, vibrant broccoli, and fluffy quinoa. Whether you’re meal prepping for a busy workweek or simply craving a healthy and tasty dinner, this recipe is bound to become your new favorite go-to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white round plate with five pieces of raw chicken, pale pink in color and smooth in texture, placed at the top right. Below it, a glass bowl holds fluffy, beige cooked quinoa filling the bowl fully. To the right of the bowl is a fresh broccoli head, green and textured with leafy florets and a short stem. Below and to the left, three green onion stalks lay diagonally with small purple garlic bulbs next to them. On the bottom left, there is one brown egg in a green egg carton and a small glass bowl with yellow oil. Above, there are three small bowls with white powder, yellow liquid, and red sauce arranged in a neat row. Near the top left, there are three transparent glass bottles with cork lids, containing oil, salt, and spices, all set on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity, with each ingredient playing a vital role in creating layers of flavor and texture. From the crispy, honey-kissed chicken to the bright, crisp broccoli and nutty quinoa, every component shines through.

Avocado oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Ideal for high-heat cooking and adds a neutral flavor that lets the other tastes pop.
Chicken breasts (4, diced): The star protein, tender and juicy when cooked just right.
Large egg (1, beaten): Helps the cornstarch stick, giving the chicken a crispy coating.
Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Ensures the chicken develops a light, crunchy texture.
Kosher salt (1 1/4 teaspoon, divided): Brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Broccoli (1 head, cut into florets): Adds freshness and a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Cooked quinoa (2 cups): A nutritious and fluffy base that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
Honey (2 tablespoons): Provides the perfect touch of natural sweetness.
Sriracha sauce (2 tablespoons, adjust as desired): Adds a bold, spicy kick that balances the honey.
Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and warmth.
Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Lends a mild tang to brighten the flavors.
Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle nuttiness and fragrance to the dish.
Green onions (2, thinly sliced): Fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and mild bite.
Black and white sesame seeds (1-2 teaspoons): Optional for a decorative crunch and visual appeal.

How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Coatings

Start by setting up two bowls—one with the beaten egg and the other with cornstarch mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper. This two-step coating is what will give your chicken that delightful crispy texture without deep-frying.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dip each diced piece of chicken into the egg, then toss it in the cornstarch mixture until coated evenly. This ensures every bite has that perfect golden crust with each sauté.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat one tablespoon of avocado oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Arrange chicken pieces in a single layer, careful not to overcrowd, so they crisp up rather than steam. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are nicely browned.

Step 4: Make and Add the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil—this vibrant sauce is where the sweet heat and garlicky magic happens. Pour it over the cooked chicken and toss gently to coat every gorgeous piece evenly.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Broccoli

Wipe the pan clean, add the remaining tablespoon of oil, and preheat it again. Add your broccoli florets and stir-fry until they start to brown just a little, about 2 to 3 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then set them aside ready to assemble.

Step 6: Assemble Your Meal Prep Bowls

Divide 1/2 cup of cooked quinoa into four bowls, then top evenly with the broccoli and honey garlic chicken. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges to add freshness and a hint of brightness.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep Recipe

The image shows many small, golden-brown chicken pieces in a pan, each piece coated in a shiny, sticky sauce. The chicken chunks have a smooth texture with some darker brown seared edges, and they are sprinkled with white and black sesame seeds. The pieces are scattered unevenly, filling the pan in a close view that highlights the glossy glaze on each chunk. The background and surface are not visible, focusing fully on the cooked chicken. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding green onions and sesame seeds creates not only a beautiful contrast of color but also layers of texture that elevate the dish visually and texturally. A squeeze of lime just before eating adds a refreshing zing that balances all the sweet, savory, and spicy notes perfectly.

Side Dishes

While the recipe already includes broccoli and quinoa, feel free to experiment with sides like steamed edamame, a crisp cucumber salad, or even some pickled vegetables to add an extra dimension. These complement the sauce’s flavors while keeping the meal light and nourishing.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting meal presentation, serve the chicken and broccoli atop a bed of fluffy quinoa in a colorful bowl, then arrange garnishes artistically on top. If you’re packing this for lunch, pack the lime wedges separately to keep things fresh until it’s time to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep Recipe is fantastic for making ahead. Store the cooked chicken, broccoli, and quinoa in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes grabbing a convenient and wholesome meal effortless on busy days.

Freezing

If you want to keep your meal prep for longer, freezing portions is a great option. Use freezer-safe containers and freeze up to three months. Just be aware that broccoli might soften slightly after freezing but will still taste delicious.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy, reheat your meal in the microwave until warmed through, or gently in a skillet. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first to preserve the texture best. You can always add a fresh squeeze of lime after warming to brighten the flavors back up.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully and stay juicy, plus they can add more richness to the dish. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through.

How spicy is this Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep Recipe?

The heat mainly comes from the sriracha, so you can easily tweak it by using less or omitting it completely if you prefer a milder flavor. The honey balances the spice beautifully.

Is quinoa the best grain to use here?

Quinoa is a great choice because of its light, fluffy texture and protein content, but you can swap it with rice, couscous, or even cauliflower rice if you want a lower-carb option.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

For a plant-based version, swap chicken for tofu or tempeh and replace honey with maple syrup or agave. Adjust the cooking method accordingly to get that same crispy texture.

What’s the best way to prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan?

Using a good quality non-stick skillet and making sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken pieces helps immensely. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, allowing each piece room to cook evenly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a meal that balances flavor, nutrition, and convenience so well, and this Honey Garlic Chicken Meal Prep Recipe hits every mark. Once you try it, you’ll find any weekday lunch or dinner feels like a delicious treat rather than a chore. Give it a whirl, and watch it become your household favorite in no time.